Job Summary

The Research Assistant will contribute to collaborative research that transforms people’s lives through new scientific findings by collecting quality data and biological samples for the AKILI study while adhering to the standard operating procedures and ethical regulations.

Responsibilities

•  Participate in the clinical care of people visiting the outpatient clinics of the Aga Khan University Hospital.
• Screen and identify eligible participants among children and adolescents at the hospitals, schools or the community.
• Provide information, education and support to families or guardians of potential eligible research participants.
• Conduct the informed consenting process for the AKILI study.
• Participate in the collection of the sociodemographic and phenotypic data using research electronic data capture software.
• Maintain high standards when collecting, transporting and storing saliva samples from research participants.
• Ensure proper, accurate and timely documentation of study related activities.
• Foster good working relationships with all stakeholders such as the personnel in the different institutions we will engage – at the different hospitals, at schools and in the community.
• Be willing to participate in the continuous medical education (CME) activities in the mental/neurological healthcare.

Requirements

• A minimum of a Diploma in Nursing or Psychology.
• Research background will be desirable.

Relevant Experience.

• 2 years working experience in clinical care or research.
• Flexible – able to work extra hours when needed.
• Able to work with vulnerable populations such as those with neurological or mental health disorders.
• Be computer literate with proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• DESIRABLE: Experience in the care for children and adolescents with behavioral or neurological disorders.

Personal Characteristics

• Can work under minimal supervision.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and a good team player.
• Good communication skills (both written and oral).
• Attention to detail.
• Keen desire to learn and share knowledge.